The Nigerian Armed Forces have issued a statement regarding the recent allegations made by former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, that a meeting was held between Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and top military personnel in regard to the 2023 election.

Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Acting Director of Defence Information, has denied these allegations and stated that the military has no involvement in any plans to disrupt the upcoming election. He referred to the allegations as “wicked and very malicious propaganda” and stated that the idea of a Coup d’etat being plotted during the supposed meeting is completely untrue.

The Armed Forces also expressed their disappointment in the fact that some individuals would make false claims and attempt to create tension in the political sphere. They emphasized that they are loyal to the constitution of the Federal Republic and will not participate in any attempts to undermine democracy.

The Defence Headquarters has maintained its stance of being neutral and apolitical in the current political process and will not engage in any inappropriate behaviour. They have stated that their primary focus is to maintain stability and protect the country and its citizens.

“Those who engage in fabricating and spreading unfounded misinformation will be invited by the appropriate law enforcement agencies to substantiate their claims.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will never be part of any ignoble plot to truncate our hard-earned democracy,” the statement added.